The Best of the UK in 55 Bike Routes: An Exploration of Breathtaking Landscapes and Historic Trails

The United Kingdom is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, boasting a diverse network of bike routes that cater to all levels of experience. From leisurely rides along scenic waterways to challenging ascents through rugged hills, there's a route to suit every taste and fitness level. This article presents a curated selection of 55 of the UK's finest bike routes, highlighting their unique charms, challenging ascents, and breathtaking landscapes.

The Great British Road Rides Guide: The Best of the UK in 55 Bike Routes

by Clive Forth

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	222876 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Coastal Routes

1. Land's End to John O'Groats: This iconic 874-mile route traverses the length of the UK, following the coastline from the southernmost point of England to the northernmost tip of Scotland. It takes in stunning coastal scenery, quaint villages, and historic landmarks.
2. Devon Coast to Coast: This 96-mile route winds its way through the picturesque Devon countryside, connecting the bustling city of Plymouth with the charming town of Teignmouth. The route offers a mix of coastal views, rolling hills, and woodland trails.
3. C2C Cycle Route (Whitehaven to Tynemouth): This 140-mile route follows the C2C railway line, connecting the Irish Sea coast with the North Sea. It offers a relatively flat and accessible ride, showcasing the beauty of Northern England's coastline.
4. Norfolk Coast Cycleway: This 52-mile route explores the stunning coastline of Norfolk, passing through picturesque towns, salt marshes, and nature reserves. It offers a mix of terrain, including sandy tracks, quiet roads, and coastal paths.

Mountainous Routes

1. Wrynose and Hardknott Passes: These two passes in the Lake District National Park are considered some of the most challenging climbs in the UK. The 7-mile Wrynose Pass features a maximum gradient of 1 in 4, while the 3-mile Hardknott Pass has a maximum gradient of 1 in 3.
2. Glencoe Loop (via the Devil's Staircase): This 36-mile loop in the Scottish Highlands takes in stunning mountain scenery, lochs, and the legendary Devil's Staircase, a steep and dramatic military road.
3. Snowdon Horseshoe: This 12-mile route around the summit of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales, offers breathtaking panoramic views. It involves challenging climbs and technical descents.
4. Tour of the Yorkshire Dales: This 192-mile route showcases the stunning scenery of the Yorkshire Dales, featuring rolling hills, picturesque villages, and historic castles.

Scenic and Historic Routes

1. The Thames Path: This 184-mile route follows the River Thames from its source in the Cotswolds to the heart of London. It passes through idyllic riverside scenery, historic towns, and iconic landmarks.
2. The Great Ouse Valley Way: This 130-mile route follows the River Ouse from Buckingham to the Wash, taking in stunning countryside, historic villages, and wildlife havens.
3. The Icknield Way Path: This 110-mile route follows an ancient trackway from Ivinghoe Beacon in Buckinghamshire to Knettishall Heath in Suffolk. It passes through diverse landscapes, including chalk downs, beech woodlands, and river valleys.
4. The Hadrian's Wall Path: This 84-mile route follows the line of Hadrian's Wall, a Roman fortification built across northern England. It offers historical insights and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Family-Friendly Routes

1. The Tissington Trail: This 13-mile route in the Peak District National Park follows a disused railway line, offering a gentle gradient and traffic-free riding. It passes through picturesque villages, meadows, and tunnels.
2. The Camel Trail: This 18-mile route in Cornwall follows the River Camel from Padstow to Bodmin. It offers a flat and accessible ride, suitable for families with young children.
3. The Bala Lake Circular: This 13-mile route around Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake) in Wales offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. It's suitable for all levels of experience and has plenty of opportunities for picnics and swimming.
4. The Dunwich to Southwold Cycleway: This 11-mile route along the Suffolk coast is perfect for a leisurely ride. It offers stunning coastal views and passes through charming villages and nature reserves.

The UK offers an unparalleled diversity of bike routes, catering to all tastes, fitness levels, and interests. The 55 routes presented in this article showcase the captivating beauty and rich history of the British landscape. Whether you prefer coastal views, mountainous challenges, or scenic and historic trails, there's a route out there to ignite your cycling passion. So get on your bike and embark on an unforgettable cycling adventure through the heart of the United Kingdom.

The Great British Road Rides Guide: The Best of the UK in 55 Bike Routes

by Clive Forth

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	222876 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	224 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE